Mechanisms of same/different abstract-concept learning by rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

J Exp Psychol Anim Behav Process. 2002 Oct;28(4):358-68.

Abstract

Experiments with 9 rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) showed, for the first time, that abstract-concept learning varied with the training stimulus set size. In a same/different task, monkeys required to touch a top picture before choosing a bottom picture (same) or white rectangle (different) learned rapidly. Monkeys not required to touch the top picture or presented with the top picture for a fixed time learned slowly or not at all. No abstract-concept learning occurred after 8-item training but progressively improved with larger set sizes and was complete following 128-item training. A control monkey with a constant 8-item set ruled out repeated training and testing. Contrary to the unique-species account, it is argued that different species have quantitative, not qualitative, differences in abstract-concept learning.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Analysis of Variance
  • Animals
  • Attention
  • Concept Formation*
  • Discrimination Learning*
  • Female
  • Macaca mulatta
  • Male
  • Mental Recall*
  • Photic Stimulation
  • Psychomotor Performance
  • Set, Psychology
  • Time Factors
  • Transfer, Psychology
  • Visual Perception